Hey Folks!

This week we continue reading Siddhartha by Herman Hesse.

Have a great week!

Essential Question

Consider the broader implications of Siddhartha's experiences in terms of the novel's exploration of spirituality, human nature, and the search for meaning in life.

Learning Objectives

Topic 3.10 Siddhartha: Chapter 10 The Son

Objectives: Analyze Siddhartha's role as a father and his relationship with his son, exploring how these experiences contribute to his personal growth and spiritual development. Evaluate the theme of parenthood and familial responsibility in "The Son," considering how Siddhartha's experiences with his son challenge his notions of selflessness, attachment, and love. Reflect on Siddhartha's internal conflict and reconciliation in the chapter "The Son," focusing on his struggle to balance his duties as a father with his spiritual aspirations and quest for enlightenment.

Topic 3.11 Siddhartha: Chapter 11 Om

Objectives: Explore the significance of the word "Om" and its symbolic representation in Hinduism and Buddhism, analyzing how its meaning evolves throughout the chapter and its relevance to Siddhartha's spiritual journey. Analyze Siddhartha's encounter with the ferryman Vasudeva and the significance of their dialogue about the sound of "Om." Consider how this conversation deepens Siddhartha's understanding of spirituality and the interconnectedness of all things. Reflect on the theme of unity and transcendence in "Om," focusing on Siddhartha's realization of the interconnectedness of all existence and his attainment of enlightenment through the experience of listening to the river and hearing the universal sound of "Om."

Topic 3.12 Siddhartha: Chapter 12  Govinda

Objectives: Analyze the reunion between Siddhartha and Govinda and their ensuing conversation, exploring how their divergent paths and experiences reflect different approaches to spiritual enlightenment. Evaluate the themes of faith, doubt, and self-discovery in "Govinda," considering how Govinda's unwavering faith contrasts with Siddhartha's journey of questioning and seeking. Reflect on the significance of Govinda's final realization and the role it plays in Siddhartha's own understanding of enlightenment and the nature of existence.

This Week’s Assignments

1. Topic 3.10 Siddhartha: Chapter 10 The Son
2. Topic 3.11 Siddhartha: Chapter 11 Om
3. Topic 3.12 Siddhartha: Chapter 12 Govinda

Last Week’s Assignments

1. Topic 3.5 Siddhartha: With the Childlike People
2. Topic 3.6 Siddhartha: Samsara
3. Topic 3.7 Siddhartha: By the River
4. Topic 3.8 Siddhartha: The Ferryman

Hey Folks!

This week we continue reading Siddhartha by Herman Hesse.

Have a great week!

Essential Question

Explore the theme of disillusionment in the chapter "Samsara." How does Siddhartha's realization of the emptiness and transience of worldly pursuits influence his outlook on life?

Learning Objectives

Topic 3.5 Siddhartha: With the Childlike People

Objectives: Explore the significance of Siddhartha's encounter with the ferryman Vasudeva and the river, focusing on how these elements represent spiritual guidance and enlightenment in the novel. Analyze the themes of reflection and introspection in Chapter 5, considering how Siddhartha's experiences with Vasudeva deepen his understanding of the self and the nature of reality. Evaluate the role of nature and the natural world in Siddhartha's journey, examining how his connection to the river and the forest facilitates his spiritual growth and transformation.

Topic 3.6 Siddhartha: Samsara

Objectives: Explore the theme of worldly attachments and desires in "Samsara," analyzing how Siddhartha's experiences in the city challenge his spiritual journey and his pursuit of inner peace and enlightenment. Examine the symbolism of the city of Samsara in the novel, considering how it represents the cycle of suffering, the illusion of material wealth and success, and the transient nature of worldly pleasures. Evaluate Siddhartha's internal conflict and growth in the chapter "Samsara," focusing on his realization of the emptiness and futility of worldly pursuits and his subsequent quest for deeper meaning and spiritual fulfillment.

Topic 3.7 Siddhartha: By the River

Objectives: Analyze the significance of Siddhartha's encounters with the river and the ferryman Vasudeva, exploring how these elements represent spiritual guidance, self-discovery, and enlightenment in the novel. Evaluate the themes of reflection, introspection, and interconnectedness in "By the River," considering how Siddhartha's experiences with Vasudeva deepen his understanding of the self, the nature of reality, and the interconnectedness of all things. Reflect on Siddhartha's transformation and growth in the chapter "By the River," focusing on his journey from restlessness and discontent to inner peace and enlightenment as he learns to listen to the wisdom of the river and embrace the present moment.

Topic 3.8 Siddhartha: The Ferryman

Objectives: Examine the role of the ferryman Vasudeva as a mentor and guide to Siddhartha, analyzing how his teachings and example facilitate Siddhartha's spiritual growth and understanding. Explore the themes of simplicity, acceptance, and interconnectedness in "The Ferryman," considering how Siddhartha's interactions with Vasudeva deepen his appreciation for the present moment and his connection to the natural world. Evaluate Siddhartha's journey towards enlightenment in the chapter "The Ferryman," focusing on his development from a restless seeker to a wise and enlightened individual as he learns from Vasudeva's patience, wisdom, and attunement to the rhythms of life.

This Week’s Assignments

1. Topic 3.5 Siddhartha: With the Childlike People
2. Topic 3.6 Siddhartha: Samsara
3. Topic 3.7 Siddhartha: By the River
4. Topic 3.8 Siddhartha: The Ferryman

Last Week’s Assignments

1. Topic 3.3 Siddhartha: Chapter 3 Gotama
2. Topic 3.4 Siddhartha: Chapter 4 Kamala

Hey Folks!

This week we continue reading Siddhartha by Herman Hesse.

Have a great week!

Essential Question

What initial impressions do you form about Siddhartha's character based on his actions and interactions in Chapter 1? How do you anticipate his journey will unfold based on these early observations?

Learning Objectives

Topic 3.3 Siddhartha: Chapter 3 Gotama

Objectives: Understand the historical and cultural context surrounding the character of Gotama and his significance within the novel "Siddhartha," including his portrayal as the Buddha. Examine the philosophical and spiritual concepts presented by Gotama, such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, and evaluate their impact on Siddhartha's understanding of enlightenment and the nature of suffering. Evaluate Siddhartha's decision not to become a follower of Gotama, analyzing the reasons behind his choice and the implications for his personal journey towards enlightenment.

Topic 3.3 Siddhartha: Chapter 4 Kamala

Objectives: Analyze Siddhartha's experiences in the city of Samsara, focusing on his interactions with Kamala and Kamaswami, to understand the novel's exploration of materialism versus spirituality and its impact on Siddhartha's journey of self-discovery. Examine the symbolism of Siddhartha's immersion in worldly pleasures and his pursuit of wealth and status, considering how these experiences contribute to his character development and challenge his understanding of happiness and fulfillment. Evaluate the consequences of Siddhartha's choices during his time in Samsara, particularly in his relationships with Kamala and Kamaswami, to discern the themes of attachment and detachment and their significance in Siddhartha's pursuit of enlightenment.

Topic 3.5 Siddhartha: With the Childlike People

Objectives: Explore the significance of Siddhartha's encounter with the ferryman Vasudeva and the river, focusing on how these elements represent spiritual guidance and enlightenment in the novel. Analyze the themes of reflection and introspection in Chapter 5, considering how Siddhartha's experiences with Vasudeva deepen his understanding of the self and the nature of reality. Evaluate the role of nature and the natural world in Siddhartha's journey, examining how his connection to the river and the forest facilitates his spiritual growth and transformation.

This Week’s Assignments

1. Topic 3.3 Siddhartha: Chapter 3 Gotama
2. Topic 3.4 Siddhartha: Chapter 4 Kamala
3. Topic 3.5 Siddhartha: Chapter 5 With the Childlike People

Last Week’s Assignments

1. Aristotle – ‘On Friendship’ Analysis
2. Siddhartha Chapter 1

Hey Folks!

This week we finish our unit on the Greek Philosophers and discuss Aristotle’s view of friendship. On Wednesday we begin reading Siddhartha by Herman Hesse.

Have a great week!

Essential Question

What initial impressions do you form about Siddhartha's character based on his actions and interactions in Chapter 1? How do you anticipate his journey will unfold based on these early observations?

Learning Objectives

Aristotle: Analysis of ‘On Friendship’

Gain a comprehensive understanding of Aristotle's definition and classification of friendship as presented in his works, particularly in the "Nicomachean Ethics." Differentiate between the three types of friendships outlined by Aristotle: friendships of utility, friendships of pleasure, and friendships of virtue. Critically assess the strengths and limitations of Aristotle's theory of friendship, considering its cultural context, philosophical implications, and relevance to contemporary society.

Siddhartha: Chapter 1

Identify and analyze the key themes present in "Siddhartha," such as the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, the journey of self-discovery, the nature of wisdom, and the balance between materialism and spirituality. Discuss the philosophical ideas presented in "Siddhartha," including concepts such as the cycle of life and death, the illusion of reality, and the pursuit of happiness, and consider their relevance to contemporary society. Apply the lessons learned from "Siddhartha" to personal experiences and reflections on the nature of existence, identity, and the search for meaning in life.

This Week’s Assignments

1. Aristotle – ‘On Friendship’ Analysis
2. Siddhartha Chapter 1

Last Week’s Assignments

1. Aristotle Lecture Questions